South Dakota Wildlife Officials Clarify Dogs-and-Lions Bill

RAPID CITY - South Dakota wildlife officials say some hunters are confused about a bill signed by Gov. Dennis Daugaard that appears to change state law allowing the use of dogs to hunt mountain lions.

Officials tell the Rapid City Journal that the Game, Fish and Parks Commission already had the authority to allow the use of dogs for lion hunting - but dogs are still prohibited for lion hunting outside of Custer State Park.

Officials say the intent of the bill is to allow the use of leashed dogs in finding big game animals that are wounded or presumed dead.